Van Long Nature Reserve – Ninh Binh

Van Long nature reserve is a legendary land and an amazingly beautiful landscape for tourism, while at the same time, the largest mangrove nature reserve in northern delta, Ninh Binh province. Van Lang reserve is on area of 2,643 hectares in seven communes of Gia Vien district.

In the Van Long forest, there are 457 species of plants, eight of which are listed in Vietnam’s Red Book.

There are 39 species of animals, including nine precious species such as languor, Tibetan bear, chamois, Loris, and red-face monkey. There are nine reptiles listed in Vietnam’s Red Book such as grass-snake, varan, slow and harmless boas, and gecko.

It is not only famous for its nature reserve, there are many cultural sites in the area. Standing on the dyke, tourists view large areas of water. Imposing mountains can be seen in the far distance.

There are 32 beautiful caves in the reserve, including Fish, Shade, Tortoise and Lemon caves. The most beautiful cave is the Fish cave at the foot of Hoang Quyen Mount. Many species of fish live in the cave.